Japan likely to decide for Thai railway project

Thailand is prepared to discuss a joint railway project with Japan on March 31st, said Transport Minister Air Chief Marshal Prajin Janthong. According to the minister, the details of the project will be concluded in May, which include the designation of the route that Japan will undertake and other investment specifics, before the two sides establish a joint committee to study further details.

The Thai government is ready to kick off the railway development project with Japan by the end of this year, saying a further delay would make it difficult for these projects to be realised, as it will have to be handled by the next government, he added.

Japan is currently deciding which route to take, said the Minister, speculating that the nation would probably be most interested in the Kanjanaburi-Bangkok-Aranyaprathet-Laem Chabang, as it connects the railway directly to the soon-to-be-established Dawei and the Leam Chabang seaports.

Germany and South Korea tipped as alternative contractors

Unless Japan decides to undertake the route,the Minister said he would discuss with Germany and South Korea instead.

The decision will be known in two months' time. As for the Tak - Phitsanulok - Petchaboon - Khon Kean - Roi Et - Mukdahan route and the route linking Bangkok with Phitsanulok and Chiang Mai, he said he would have to study the details before making any decision.

The Air Chief Marshal said the government is ready to kick off the project by the end of this year, saying a further delay would make it difficult for these projects to be realized, as it will have to be handled by the next government.